Sat Feb 15 09:43:21 UTC 2025: ## President’s Rule Imposed in Manipur Amidst Ongoing Ethnic Conflict

**Imphal, Manipur – February 15, 2025** – President’s Rule has been imposed in Manipur following the Bharatiya Janata Party’s (BJP) failure to appoint a successor to Chief Minister N. Biren Singh and the state assembly’s prolonged suspension. The decision comes six months after the last assembly session and amidst a continuing ethnic conflict that erupted in May 2023.

The conflict, characterized by widespread displacement (affecting over 60,000 people) and the militarization of civil society through the emergence of armed groups calling themselves “village volunteers,” has defied resolution. These groups, armed with weapons looted from the police, are further complicated by the involvement of insurgents from Myanmar and those previously fighting the Indian state.

The central government, which has overseen law and order in Manipur since mid-2023, now has the opportunity to address the crisis under President’s Rule. Key priorities include easing tensions, assisting displaced individuals who are suffering from trauma and livelihood loss, and facilitating dialogue between the conflicting communities. A crucial element will be disarming the “village volunteers” through a combination of firm action and incentives, while simultaneously addressing the involvement of insurgent groups.

The previous Biren Singh administration is criticized for perceived bias and for exacerbating tensions through the stigmatization of the Kuki-Zo community. The current government aims to distance itself from this legacy. While immediate assembly elections might be considered due to deep ethnic divisions, the focus is initially on restoring law and order and extinguishing the climate of fear before holding any polls.

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